According to a recent poll conducted by Leger Marketing on behalf of Postmedia, it is evident that a majority of Canadians believe that Canada’s justice system is too lenient on violent criminals and that too many violent offenders are repeatedly being offered bail. The survey, released on June 15, shows that most Canadians are more inclined towards taking a tougher stance against violent offenders compared to their respective governments.
Out of the respondents, 79 percent agreed that there are too many repeat violent offenders being offered bail. Additionally, 78 percent agreed that Canada’s justice system is too lenient on offenders found guilty of committing violent crimes. These findings were based on an online survey involving 1,525 Canadians aged 18 and above, conducted from June 2 to June 4.
When it comes to crime, the top priorities for Canadians are violent crimes such as murder and assault (55 percent), followed by illegal firearm possession (41 percent), and drug and substance abuse (37 percent).
The poll also highlights that only 32 percent of respondents believe that the nation’s criminal justice system is firm and fair. This lack of confidence indicates a perceived inability of the system to deliver appropriate and proportional justice. Around 68 percent of Canadians view the country’s approach to bail as a “catch and release” system.
In response to these concerns, the Liberal government introduced Bill C-48 on May 16, which aims to reform the bail system. The proposed changes to the criminal code would create a reverse onus, requiring the defense to prove why a suspect should be granted bail, unlike the current approach where prosecutors must prove why the suspect shouldn’t.
The suggested amendments come after months of pressure from provinces and territories to reduce the number of repeat violent offenders granted bail. However, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the proposed measures, asserting that they do not effectively address the issue of catch and release.
According to the Leger poll, 91 percent of Canadians strongly agree that repeat violent criminal offenders should have their access to bail severely restricted or revoked.
Regarding substance abuse, the survey indicates that respondents are more supportive of law enforcement and treatment actions. These include prosecuting drug suppliers (86 percent), enforcing mandatory addictions counseling for seriously addicted individuals (71 percent), and enacting stricter laws to prohibit serious drug use (69 percent).
However, the decriminalization of illegal street drugs (33 percent) and safer supply approaches (48 percent) received less support from the respondents.
Overall, the survey reveals a widespread belief among Canadians that the justice system should take a tougher stance on violent offenders and address the issue of catch and release. Additionally, there is support for measures to combat substance abuse through law enforcement and treatment actions, while the decriminalization of drugs and safer supply approaches receive less backing.